The terrible descriptions were so real and vivid, that the sallow pages seemed to turn red with gore; and the words upon them, to be sounded in his ears, as if they were whispered, in hollow murmurs, by the spirits of the dead.
In a paroxysm of fear, the boy closed the book, and thrust it from him.
Then, falling upon his knees, he prayed Heaven to spare him from such deeds; and rather to will that he should die at once, than be reserved for crimes, so fearful and appalling.

By degrees, he grew more calm, and besought, in a low and broken voice, that he might be rescued from his present dangers; and that if any aid were to be raised up for a poor outcast boy who had never known the love of friends or kindred, it might come to him now, when, desolate and deserted, he stood alone in the midst of wickedness and guilt.
He had concluded his prayer, but still remained with his head buried in his hands, when a rustling noise aroused him.
'What's that!' he cried, starting up, and catching sight of a figure standing by the door.

'Who's there ?' 'Me.

Only me,' replied a tremulous voice.
Oliver raised the candle above his head: and looked towards the door.
It was Nancy.
'Put down the light,' said the girl, turning away her head.

'It hurts my eyes.' Oliver saw that she was very pale, and gently inquired if she were ill.
The girl threw herself into a chair, with her back towards him: and wrung her hands; but made no reply.
'God forgive me!' she cried after a while, 'I never thought of this.' 'Has anything happened ?' asked Oliver.